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A-Levels and GCSEs

Five subjects at GCSE are taken including:

  • English and Maths
  • Psychology
  • combined Science (equivalent to 2 GCSEs) covering Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
  • Entry requirements

    To assess the likelihood that the candidate will achieve minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 5-9, the following will be considered:

    • Admissions interview
    • Entry Tests in English, Maths and Science or Humanities
    • Previous GCSE performance (or equivalent)
    • Reference including attendance information.
  • Who is the course for?

    Pathway to A level is a package of 5 GCSEs for students who are able to demonstrate an ability and suitability to study A levels within one year but do not currently hold all of the necessary qualifications or skills.

    It is not a retake course, as it includes subjects that are not offered in most schools. It requires that the full GCSE syllabus is covered within around 9 months (i.e. September to May) whereas schools typically cover the syllabus in 2-3 academic years. It is demanding and may not be appropriate for all applicants.

    It may be suitable for applicants:

    • Who haven’t had the opportunity to take GCSEs, for example, if they arrived in the UK at a later stage of their education.
    • Who have been educated in the UK but suffered a very serious and disruptive crisis/incident at or near the time of their exams.
  • Study methods

    The course is full-time onsite usually for 4 days a week.

  • How is the course assessed?

    GCSEs are assessed by external examinations at the end of the year, combined with internal assessments in some subjects.

  • More information

    For further information, please contact our Information, Advice and Guidance team on 020 8607 8000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    Achieving GCSEs, especially in English and Mathematics, improves the chance of employment or gaining an apprenticeship.

  • Where Next – Further Studies

    A Levels or Level 3 programme. Students who have already gained good passes for their GCSEs should normally look to progress to a Level 3 course instead of a re-take course at Level 2.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

Course starting Sep 2025

Starts 2 September 2025

Duration 1 Year(s)

Location Richmond upon Thames Campus